Mr. Magoo

Top of Toon Town

The near-sighted Mr. Magoo was a 1950s phenomenon. Director John Hubley first modeled Magoo after his bullheaded uncle. Jim Backus provided hilarious ad libs for the cantankerous old crank, and the shorts were ultimately recognized with two Oscars. When most cartoons of the era were aimed squarely at children, UPA’s cartoons were clearly aimed at grown-ups. The character endured throughout the years as a symbol of buffoonery and, though best remembered for his portrayal of Scrooge, Magoo has remained the beloved elder statesman of animation icons.